United Way’s Pop Up Giving is back!

YOU pick the nonprofit with the winning pitch to get the donation pot.

Fast. Fun. Instant impact.

United Way of Southwest Michigan invites the public to attend its second “Pop Up Giving” event on Thursday, January 24, from 5-6:30 p.m. at Silver Harbor Brewing Company in St. Joseph. This event gives the community the chance to decide where the funds go.

Three local income nonprofits—Gateway, Junior Achievement, and Kinexus—have three minutes to pitch a project that will impact the community, followed by two minutes of Q&A with the audience. (The audience has five minutes to complete their ballots to determine the winner.) Proceeds from ALL ticket sales are combined to create a “donation pot.” Second and third place finishers each receive consolation cash prizes of $250, while the organization with the most votes WINS THE REST!

“This event allows our partner agencies an opportunity to shine a light on some of the great work that they do. We’re happy to provide this type of platform for them and hope to hold this event quarterly through the year,” said Charlotte Becker, Direct of Annual Campaign at United Way of Southwest Michigan.

This event’s sponsor, Honor Credit Union, has already kicked in $1,000 to get the pot started!

“We know that every project has a story and every dream has an inspiration, which is why we are thrilled to partner with United Way to support three area nonprofits and their quest to make a positive impact for the people of Southwest Michigan,” said Stacey Carlin, Honor Credit Union Communications and Brand Manager.

Individual tickets are $20 and include one free drink and light appetizers provided by Silver Harbor. Doors open at 5 p.m. Presentations begin at 5:30 p.m.

United Way of Southwest Michigan fights for the Health, Education and Financial Stability of every person in every community. We have the influence and relationships to make sustainable change a reality. By harnessing resources from corporate, nonprofit and public partners, we provide immediate assistance to our most vulnerable populations while addressing the root causes of our community's longstanding challenges and changing lives for the better. To join the fight—through giving, advocacy and volunteering—visit www.uwsm.org.